The Senate did not always rely on cloture, closed-door negotiations, and powerful party leaders to pass legislation. Committees developed bills, senators debated and amended them on the floor, and majority leaders managed the process without controlling it.

Senate minorities only gain leverage when they are willing to use the tools available to them.

“It is difficult to make predictions, particularly about the future.” -Mark Twain

Offering a third-degree amendment to Farm Bill guarantees vote.

There are multiple ways to force a vote.